Leprosy Cases on the Rise in Florida, New Report Reveals
Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is making a surprising comeback in the United States, particularly in Florida, according to a new report. Despite being a rare disease in the U.S., cases of leprosy have more than doubled in Central Florida over the past decade, suggesting that it has become endemic in the region.
The research letter, recently published in a journal by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), highlights that about 34% of new cases in the U.S. between 2015 and 2020 seemed to be locally acquired. Furthermore, some patients did not have the traditional risk factors associated with leprosy, such as close contact with infected individuals or exposure to armadillos, which can carry the disease.
Leprosy is caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium leprae and is characterized by skin lesions, patches of discolored skin, and lumps on the skin, particularly on the face and earlobes. If left untreated, the disease can lead to nerve damage, paralysis, blindness, and nasal deformities.
Despite the increase in cases, experts are urging the public not to panic. Dr. Jose Lucar, an infectious disease physician, assures that the risk of leprosy in the United States remains very low. The CDC has also stated that a travel alert is unnecessary for areas reporting local cases, including Central Florida.
Here’s why experts say there is no cause for widespread alarm:
1. Leprosy doesn’t easily spread: Transmission of leprosy is still not fully understood, but it is believed to primarily spread through respiratory droplets. However, the slow growth of the bacteria means that extended and close contact with untreated leprosy is necessary for infection. Casual contact, like hugging or shaking hands, does not lead to transmission.
2. Natural immunity: Many people have natural immunity to leprosy due to exposure to other mycobacteria present in the environment. The bacterium responsible for leprosy is closely related to other bacteria found in soil, water, and air.
3. Genetic susceptibility: While some individuals may be more susceptible to leprosy due to genetic factors, they represent a small percentage of the population. Over 95% of people worldwide have natural immunity to the disease.
4. Highly effective treatments: Leprosy is curable with early diagnosis and the administration of antibiotics. Treatment usually lasts six months to two years, and a person becomes non-contagious within days of starting treatment.
In light of the increasing cases, experts emphasize the importance of treating infected individuals to prevent further transmission and avoiding contact with armadillos, which can be carriers of the disease.
However, the rise in leprosy cases also speaks to the larger issue of emerging diseases in new areas due to global warming. The changing climate enables bacteria and viruses to thrive in previously unfamiliar regions. The report serves as a reminder that collective efforts are needed to combat the effects of global warming and prevent the spread of diseases.
While the findings suggest the need for further research into the transmission of leprosy and environmental sources, experts reassure the public that there is no cause for general concern. Clinicians and public health authorities will now consider Florida in their contact tracing efforts for leprosy cases in the U.S.